Just Diagnosed... Numbness, no pain. Get surgery? - Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Message Board

GAL WITH CHRONIC PAIN · 07-24-2001, 04:37 PM

I just had my EMG done yesterday. The neurologist who did the nerve response test (shocks), and the acupunctune tests (needles), said that I definitely have severe damage to the carpal tunnel nerves in both wrists.

I'm in disbelief, because I already have migraines, fibromyalgia, TMJD, sciatica, and heel spurs! I'm a walking nightmare, and now this. (Hence my member name...)

I've read a lot of your postings here about whether to get the surgery or not, but the ones I've read, everyone had pain. I have no pain, just numbness when I grasp objects (computer mouse, phone, carving knife), and in my sleep, my hands go numb.

The neurologist wants me to follow up with my PCP, and talk about getting the surgery. For now, I have to go buy wrist splints. My question is: if I'm not in pain, should I wait until it gains painful, if it ever will, or go ahead and get it repaired while I'm still in the state of JUST numbness. I'm confused.

Advice, anyone? Thank YOU!

Carol · 07-25-2001, 06:08 AM

all I can say is, if you wait too long you will do damage that can no longer be repaired......I don't know anyone who hasn't had pain but if you tested positive for severe CT I would go get surgery done because you can eventally lose the use of your hands........

Tiddles · 07-25-2001, 06:30 AM

Dear Gal with chronic pain
I agree with Carol. You must get it done. I had CT in both hands and if you don't get it done you may lose the use of your hands or do permanent damage. Don't leave it. You'll be right as rain after they're done. One suggestion. Don't have both done together. You will do damage if you over use your hand after the operation. Both my hands were, sucessful and I'm so glad I had them done.Good luck.

JB* · 07-25-2001, 12:06 PM

You're telling my story. I found out I didn't have FM, but was hypothyroid with adrenal problems. Carpal tunnel is also a symptom of adrenal problems and thyroid problems. I found a chiropractor that treated the carpal tunnel with a technique called Active Release Therapy. And now that my thyroid and adrenals have been looked after, I have had no reoccurance.
Check on Mary Shoman's thyroid site on about.com about thyroid and adrenal problems. And call around to see if there is a chiropractor in your area who does Active Release Therapy.
JB

GAL WITH CHRONIC PAIN · 07-26-2001, 03:12 PM

Thank you all for your replies.

The PCP's office called yesterday, and they want to me schedule an appointment with a surgeon right away, and not even go back for a follow up with the PCP.

I guess I'll visit the surgeon, and see what he says, after he reviews my EMG results.

I'll probably end up having the surgery, to avoid further complications, as you have advised. But, I WON'T get both hands at once, because I see from the general concensus, that it's not a good idea!

Thank you all, again.